[Campbell Biology P.762] What is the characteristic symmetry of adult and larval echinoderms... | Practice Question

What is the characteristic symmetry of adult and larval echinoderms, respectively, as stated in the text?

  • A: Both adult and larval echinoderms exhibit radial symmetry.
  • B: Adult echinoderms are radially symmetrical, while larvae exhibit bilateral symmetry.
  • C: Both adult and larval echinoderms exhibit bilateral symmetry.
  • D: Adult echinoderms are bilaterally symmetrical, while larvae exhibit radial symmetry.

Explanation

The text states: 'Echinoderms descended from bilaterally symmetrical ancestors, yet on first inspection most species seem to have a radially symmetrical form. ... However, echinoderm larvae have bilateral symmetry. Furthermore, the symmetry of adult echinoderms is not truly radial.'